Known around the world for its commitment to biodiversity, sustainability, and eco-tourism, it’s little wonder that Costa Rica is just full of amazing eco-resorts. From the dense cloud forests of Monteverde to the bubbling hot springs of La Fortuna to the wide open beaches of the Nicoya Peninsula, some of the best eco-resorts in Costa Rica lie in the most beautiful natural spaces.
So, let’s dive in and find out more about the best eco-resorts in Costa Rica!
The 16 Best Eco Resorts in Costa Rica
1. Lapa Rios Lodge by Böëna
Rest and relax surrounded by a gigantic private nature reserve
There are eco-resorts and then there are eco lodges that are set within 1000 acres of private nature reserve. That’s exactly what you get with a stay at Lapa Rios Lodge by Böëna on the stunning Osa Peninsula.
A stay in one of the 17 bungalows on this amazing eco-resort will allow you to be surrounded by Central America’s last remaining lowland tropical rainforest, as well as being within stumbling distance of a gorgeous and serene beach. This is the ideal place to stay if you love nature, remote vibes, and high-luxury accommodation.
2. Arenas Del Mar Beachfront & Rainforest Resort
Relaxing rainforest and Pacific Ocean stay in the popular Manuel Antonio area
Located just 50 yards from the stunning Playitas Beach, the Arenas Del Mar Beachfront & Rainforest Resort offers the perfect blend of beach break and rainforest exploration. Being little over a mile from the iconic Manuel Antonio National Park and all the restaurants and bars that surround it, you’re in a great position near the action but far enough away to feel tranquil and calm.
If you don’t fancy chilling out on the gorgeous beach, the Arenas Del Mar Beachfront & Rainforest Resort has an amazing outdoor swimming pool and garden area where you can relax. Alternatively, head to the onsite hammam for a treatment or two after a long Costa Rican hike!
3. Nayara Tented Camp
Wellness and relaxation await at this unique boutique glamping experience
Now, when I say a camping experience, you might not think luxury, but Nayara Tented Camp is here to change your mind. With luxurious safari-style tents that come with their own private infinity pools, you’ll never see camping the same way again.
Located actually inside the Arenal Volcano National Park, you’ll be surrounded by amazing wildlife and botanicals. With the large list of wellness services and treatments including yoga classes, a full menu of spa treatments, and hot tubs, it’s a great base to explore the local area.
4. SCP Corcovado Wilderness Lodge
Ultimate Pura Vida experience in the heart of the Corcovado National Park
If you consider yourself a fan of nature and wild spaces, then you need to book a stay at the SCP Corcovado Wilderness Lodge. Located actually in the Corcovado National Park, you can enjoy mindblowing views of the Pacific Ocean, and be surrounded by amazing forest landscapes.
With the San Pedrillo Beach being just 350 yards away, it’s the ideal spot to chill out in the southern Costa Rican sunshine. Kick back in a hammock, wander through the national park, or take a dip in the warm Pacific waters – it’s all possible here.
5. Arenal Observatory Lodge and Trails
Iconic views of the mighty Arenal Volcano make this eco-lodge an absolute showstopper
Nestled in the gorgeous Arenal Conservation Area if you’re looking for some of the most jaw-dropping vistas of the Arenal Volcano, you need to book a stay at the Arenal Observatory Lodge and Trails. With volcanos on one side and waterfalls on the other, this is a nature lover’s playground.
La Fortuna is a haven for hikers and the sheer number of trails from this amazing eco-resort, both inside the 860 private acres of tropical rainforest and outside in the surrounding Arenal area, makes it a must-stay for avid wanderers.
6. Ecolirios Boutique Hotel and Spa
Rural eco-spa in the Caribbean Limon province
If you want a rural escape away from the hustle and bustle of the tourist route, head to this Ecoliriios Boutique Hotel and Spa in Limon, on the Caribbean side of the country. Surrounded by lush greenery and stunning mountain views for miles around, it’s the perfect retreat from reality.
For the ultimate relaxation, head to the hotel spa for a wide range of treatments and calming services. If you want to explore the local area, the Ecolirios Boutique Hotel and Spa also has free bikes to borrow and cycle maps!
7. Dantica Cloud Forest Lodge
Relaxing cloud forest luxury in the foothills of the Talamancan Mountain range
Looking for a mountain getaway away from the main tourist route? Located just south of San Jose in the Talamancan Mountain Range, you’ll find the dreamy Dantica Cloud Forest Lodge. Being surrounded by the Los Santos Forest Reserve and the Los Quetzales National Park, there is a beautiful tranquility to this eco-resort.
With expansive views of the cloud forest and national park, it’s a great place for wildlife enthusiasts to visit. The hotel even helps organize wildlife walking tours and birdspotting excursions of the local area. Learn more about the region’s amazing biodiversity at one of the best eco-resorts in Costa Rica.
8. Pacuare Lodge by Böëna
Awe-inspiring riverfront oasis, surrounded by natural adventure
When we think of truly idyllic eco-resorts in Costa Rica, it’s hard not to conjure up images of the Pacuare Lodge. Located on the stunning Bajo Tigre, you’ll wake up to the relaxing sound of the river and the birds in the trees all around you.
Enjoy wandering around the treetops in a canopy, try your hand at whitewater rafting, or go crazy and slide down nearby waterfalls on a canyoning tour. Chill out at the hotel, sit on the open air veranda, or explore the beautiful natural surrounding area.
9. Hacienda AltaGracia
High-end eco luxury awaits on in Santa Teresa
Want to journey inland to the beautiful Santa Teresa area and relax in the lap of luxury? Well then, check out the Hacienda AltaGracia. Located just 2.9km from the amazing and popular Playa Hermosa, the Hacienda AltaGracia has gorgeous mountainside views, an infinity pool, and spacious suites and rooms.
One of the reasons this is one of the best eco-resorts in Costa Rica is their focus on sustainability and wellness. From locally-sourced food to weekly wellness activities, this is a great place to relax, rejuvenate, and get away from it all.
10. Tabacón Thermal Resort & Spa
Speciality hot springs in the shadow of the Arenal Volcano
If you’re staying in the beautiful town of La Fortuna, spending time in the geothermal hot springs have to be at the top of your to-do list. But why go in the public hot springs, when you can stay at the Tabacón Thermal Resort & Spa and use their exclusive hot springs!
With a choice of five different swimming pools in addition to the hot springs, a full spa, massage services, and a sauna, it’s the perfect place to relax and unwind. In the immediate area, there are also a ton of great hikes, including the iconic La Fortuna Waterfall.
11. Cedrela Eco-Lodge & Restaurante
Traditional, affordable eco-lodge in the Los Quetzales National Park
If you’re looking to enjoy an eco-lodge on a budget, check out the Cedrela Eco-Lodge and Restaurante. Located in the heart of the beautiful Los Quetzales National Park, this traditional eco-lodge is filled with natural wooden features and amazing mountain views.
Despite it’s super remote location, Cedrela Eco-Lodge’s restaurant serves up beautiful food with locally-sourced ingredients. With awe-inspiring views, a focus on the natural world, and relaxing vibes, this is an amazing place to stay in the heart of Costa Rica.
12. Arenal Manoa Resort & Hot Springs
Quiet and restful hot spring retreat on the outskirts of La Fortuna
If you want to be within striking distance of La Fortuna town but also want a relaxing and tranquil retreat, the Arenal Manoa Resort and Hot Springs offer you the best of both worlds. Located a 10 minute drive from the town center, it still feels a world away thanks to the onsite relaxing hot springs.
After a long day of hiking around Arenal Volcano National Park, you can chill out in the hot springs, soak in the outdoor swimming pool, or treat yourself to a spa treatment or two. With so many of the spacious rooms having outstanding views of the Arenal Volcano, you’ll also experience some of the best sunsets in Costa Rica!
13. Hideaway Rio Celeste Hotel
An eco-friendly hiker’s paradise on the banks of the Rio Celeste
Want to spend your days hiking up a storm while you’re in Costa Rica? Check out the Hideaway Rio Celeste Hotel. Located near the Tenorio Volcano National Park, this amazing eco-resort is made up of a series of giant apartments, villas, bungalows, and suites, each with outstanding views of the surrounding Rio Celeste area.
With a gorgeous outdoor swimming pools, a huge lounge area with a pool table, and guided hikes of the local area, including to the iconic Rio Celeste waterfall. If you want to spend your time in nature and trek around volcanic national parks, this is the place for you.
14. Olas Verdes Hotel
Dreamy wellness-centric getaway on the beautiful Nicoya Peninsula
If you’re thinking about visiting the heart of wellness tourism in Costa Rica, you need to check out the Nicoya Penisula. Nosara is the hub of yoga and surf culture in Costa Rica and the Olas Verdes Hotel is the perfect chill getaway to reconnect with yourself.
Located just 600 yards from the stunning Guiones Beach, this hotel is surrounded by gorgeous ocean on one side and lush rainforest on the other. With daily yoga sessions on the dedicated yoga deck, free bikes to hire, and a gorgeous outdoor swimming pool, this place is undoubtedly one of the best eco-resorts in Costa Rica.
15. Si Como No Resort and Wildlife Refuge
Gorgeous treetop eco resort above the iconic Manuel Antonio National Park
Do you want to be right in the heart of the action in Manuel Antonio? Well then, you need to book a stay at the Si Como No Resort and Wildlife Refuge. With villas and suites on the hillside overlooking the national park, you can rest assured you’ll be treated to amazing views and sunsets across the Pacific Ocean.
Onsite, there is every amenity you can think of from hot tubs to water slides to a full cinema room. It’s kind of insane! The proximity to the national park also means that you can catch glimpses of some of Costa Rica’s most beloved wildlife like monkeys and sloths.
16. Luna Lodge
Luxury eco-lodge with spa treatments and nature tours
Powered by hydroenergy from around the property, this beautiful eco-lodge on the coastline in the Corcovado National Park, is the perfect place to stay to really get back in touch with nature. Offering nature tours of the surrounding national park and nearby beaches, Luna Lodge is a great place to stay whether you’re flying solo or planning a trip with loved ones.
If you want to hang out around the resort, there are also plenty of yoga sessions, an organic swimming pool, and a full spa to soothe any aching muscles from those long days of hiking!
FAQs About the Best Eco Resorts in Costa Rica
Okay, so let’s finish up this guide to the best eco-resorts in Costa Rica with a few quick frequently asked questions. Whether you’re looking for information about the most sustainable locations in Costa Rica or answers about how expensive eco-tourism is, you’ll find them all here!
Is Costa Rica a sustainable destination?
Costa Rica is one of the most sustainable and eco-friendly places on the planet. With an incredible 93% of power coming from renewable sources and a huge 30% of the country’s land being protected, it’s an environmental haven. It’s also one of the most biodiverse places on earth with so many different species of animal and plant life calling Costa Rica home. Everything about this country is geared towards living with nature. The country’s motto, Pura Vida, literally means pure life, and this is encompassed by the people, the landscape, and the tourism scene.
What’s the most eco-friendly part of Costa Rica?
The most eco-friendly part of Costa Rica is actually really hard to pin down as there are eight biological reserves and 20 natural parks that make up the country. This means that a huge portion of Costa Rica is incredibly well-protected in terms of sustainability.
The eco-tourism hotspots tend to be around the Arenal Volcano in Monteverde and La Fortuna and the coastal national park town of Manuel Antonio. So if you’re looking for eco-resorts and tourism, these are some great places to start, although there are eco-resorts to be found all around the country, as we’ve outlined in this article!
What’s the difference between a resort and an eco-resort?
The difference between a resort and an eco-resort is all about sustainable practices. It’s what the eco-resort is actively doing to lessen its impact on the environment or give back to the local community.
This can involve using solar panels and hydro power instead of non-renewable energy, or it could involve using locally-grown produce in the resort restaurants or offering tours and excursions that exclusively use local operators.
Are eco-resorts expensive?
Eco-resorts have gained a bit of a reputation for being expensive as many of the sustainable practices mean that overheads for the resorts can be high. However, in a place as eco-friendly as Costa Rica, that’s less of an issue as there are so many eco-resorts to choose from. Competition in eco-tourism here has created affordable pricing that often puts eco-resorts on par price-wise with their less sustainable counterparts.
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